What are the treatments for ED?

If you are troubled by occasional erectile dysfunction, remember that arousal often takes longer as you get older and that satisfaction should not be equated with performance. If your dysfunction is causing you problems, you should seek medical help. The number of treatment options has increased in recent years.

Many doctors will recommend changes in lifestyle as a first step in treatment. Suggestions include the following:

Cut back on alcohol, tobacco and illegal drug use

Change prescription medications under your doctor’s guidance, as some medicines not only interfere with achieving erection but can also decrease your interest in sex and the ability to reach orgasm

Medication for erectile dysfunction

Sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil are effective in about seven out of 10 men who use them. A tablet is taken about 30 minutes to one hour (depending on the specific drug) before intercourse and, when effective, allows a normal erection with stimulation. These medications are not to be used by men who take any kind of nitroglycerin or nitrate drugs, because the combination can result in dangerously low blood pressure

Self-injected medications can produce an erection. The medication is injected before sex into the side of the penis; these drugs may also improve long-term potency and penile blood flow

Prostaglandin suppositories can be inserted into the urethra to produce erections

Medically administered testosterone injections or patches help some men, but no specific level of the hormone guarantees potency

Devices to aid erection

Another option for the treatment of erectile dysfunction is a vacuum inflation device (or vacuum constriction device). This instrument draws blood into the penis by creating negative pressure around it; a rubber ring is then slipped over the base of the penis to maintain the erection. The ring should be removed after 30 minutes to restore circulation and prevent damage to the penile tissues.

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